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Factitious cutaneous bleeding. A case of pseudostigmata.
American Journal of Diseases of Children (1960)
|April 1, 1984
Summary
A young girl experienced recurrent bleeding from various sites, initially thought to be stigmata. Investigations revealed the bleeding was factitial, originating from a mild gingivitis, highlighting the importance of thorough examination in unusual cases.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Psychosomatic Medicine
- Forensic Medicine
Background:
- A 10-year-old girl presented with a ten-month history of recurrent, spontaneous bleeding episodes.
- The bleeding occurred from the skin, eyes, and ears, presenting as unusual stigmata.
Observation:
- The patient's presentation and altered family dynamics suggested a factitial origin for the bleeding.
- Initial assessments considered the possibility of external stigmata due to the bizarre nature of the symptoms.
Findings:
- A thorough clinical examination identified a mild case of gingivitis as the source of the blood.
- The bleeding episodes were determined to be factitial, with gingival bleeding being the primary contributor.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering factitious disorders in patients with unexplained bleeding.
- Accurate diagnosis requires a comprehensive approach, integrating medical evaluation with psychosocial factors.
- Identifying the source of bleeding, even when factitial, is crucial for appropriate management and intervention.